We were one of those "people/couples" Carol. Years ago at Bliss when they had dining we didn't realize a service charge had been added so we tipped on top of that. We were staying at the Caravanserai so we did not drive. Too much sun, too many cocktails and well....

When we figured it out later the server or restaurant manager because who knows who gets the "service charge/tip" winded up with a 35% tip.

If there is 15% added we typically do not leave additional monies. There are of course exceptions.

I kind of understand the problem. Visitors from the US understand tipping whereas visitors from Europe are more apt not to as service charge is usually included. If it's already in and service was good, I add some, if the service is wanting, inform the manager.

Quote:fabila said:We were one of those "people/couples" Carol. Years ago at Bliss when they had dining we didn't realize a service charge had been added so we tipped on top of that. We were staying at the Caravanserai so we did not drive. Too much sun, too many cocktails and well....

When we figured it out later the server or restaurant manager because who knows who gets the "service charge/tip" winded up with a 35% tip.

If there is 15% added we typically do not leave additional monies. There are of course exceptions.

As many has already stated...rings out my feelings exactly. I hate being told what I HAVE to leave for service/tip or whatever else they can call it. I always leave minimum 20 percent wherever we go....but.....when I am told what i MUST tip...i rarely will leave any extra!!! The exception is when service has gone above and beyond!!! The added service charge is a scam...we all know it and so do the restaurant personnell and management/owners. They are hoping that after a few drinks, people won't notice, or are first time ''virgins'' to the island, and will double dip the tip!! It's a win/win for them....they make out either way..sometimes double. In most other industries, a practice of deceit would be illegal. New mantra should be "Diners Beware".

Always love this one when it comes up.15% added regardless of the quality of food and service.Of course we are to assume that good is the "norm" and we know what to do with "great", right?But what about sub par? True, we can ask to speak to the manager but who's kidding whom? Most of us are reluctant to make waves.So our options? 1. Don't go back.2. When asked, be honest and relate your experience to others when asked.3. Find alternatives that are not quite as greedy. They are out there.

I appreciate all the answers! Pat, it seems that you are my voice of reason on this site. I almost always agree with you. And yes, I agree this time! Don't you think wait staff hates this too?My new resolve in regarding to tipping: What Carol said!

"If we like the service or if it's even somewhat reasonable, we tip 20% or more. If they add 15% automatically, I tip zero extra"

Carol, let me tell you and everyone why this attitude is so wrong. First of all, it's not the servers fault the owner is a greedy asshole. Being the the business, I detest the service charge unless it is clearly stated. We always ask before we are seated about the service charge. We have no control if the owner splits the tips amongst the staff, or he keeps a percentage for himself. Unfortunately, if we knew, we would never patronize an owner who steals from his employees. When we were in Europe we understood how the SC worked, but tipped about 10% anyway if the service was good. Bottom line it's not fare to burn the server for doing his or hers job.

We eat mostly on the French side but in 20years going there we haven't had bad service anywhere. We add 10% to all bills. La croissanterie shakes his head no to more. We are never in a hurry when we dine.

Sorry, I think my attitude is absolutely correct. Servers know what the owner's policy is, and if they don't like it, get a job somewhere else. I am not responsible if the owner is stealing from his employees.